The Monster Cookie Crispy Rice Treats are where childhood nostalgia and kitchen creativity meet! These bars combine the dense chewiness of a classic rice crispy treat with the bold flavors of peanut butter, oats, and bursts of chocolate. The candy-coated chocolates aren’t just delicious—they add a pop of color that makes every bite feel like a celebration.
These treats are no-bake, which means they’re perfect for when you want something sweet without heating up the oven. With a simple method and fun ingredients, they’re a great project for kids and adults alike. Serve them at parties, slip one into a lunchbox, or stash a few for yourself—you deserve it.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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Vegetable oil cooking spray, for the pan
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2 cups quick-cooking oats
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6 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1 pound mini marshmallows
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3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
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3/4 cup creamy unsweetened peanut butter
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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6 1/2 cups crispy rice cereal
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1 1/4 cups candy-coated chocolates
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1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
Directions:
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Lightly grease an 8-inch square baking pan with vegetable oil cooking spray. Line with parchment paper, allowing a 1-inch overhang on all sides.
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In a large pot over medium heat, toast the oats, stirring constantly until lightly golden and fragrant. Transfer to a plate to cool.
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Wipe the pot clean. Melt butter in the same pot over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and stir in marshmallows and salt. Cook, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
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Remove from heat and quickly stir in peanut butter and vanilla until combined (some peanut butter swirls are fine).
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Fold in the crispy rice cereal and toasted oats until coated. Quickly fold in candy-coated chocolates and milk chocolate chips.
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Pour mixture into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Place a sheet of parchment on top and press the mixture down very firmly with your hands.
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Let sit at room temperature for 1 hour, until set. Cut into bars and serve.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: Approx. 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 8–10 bars
Why Monster Cookie Crispy Rice Treats Stand Out
The allure of Monster Cookie Crispy Rice Treats lies in their perfect balance of flavors and textures. The chewy oats add a rustic, hearty quality to the bars, while the marshmallows create a soft and pillowy base. The peanut butter gives the bars a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the candy-coated chocolates, which add a playful and colorful twist. These treats are extra chewy and dense compared to traditional rice crispy treats, which makes them an irresistible snack. The incorporation of oats and peanut butter makes them a bit more substantial than your average rice crispy treat, and the crunchy, candy-coated chocolates offer a fun visual and textural contrast.
A Perfect Treat for All Ages
Monster Cookie Crispy Rice Treats are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you’re baking with kids or preparing a batch for a party, these bars are a hit. They provide an excellent opportunity for little ones to get involved in the kitchen, as there’s no baking involved, just mixing and pressing. Older kids and adults alike will enjoy the nostalgic taste of this easy-to-make dessert. The bright candy-coated chocolates mimic “monster eyes,” which is a fun detail that will delight children, making these treats an ideal addition to any Halloween party or themed event.
The Beauty of No-Bake Desserts
One of the biggest advantages of Monster Cookie Crispy Rice Treats is that they are a no-bake dessert. This makes them an excellent choice for when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to turn on the oven. No-bake recipes are particularly popular during the warmer months, when turning on the oven can heat up the house. Not only does this save time, but it also reduces the effort required to prepare a delicious homemade treat. The simplicity of this dessert also makes it a great go-to when you need to whip up something quick for an impromptu gathering.
Customizing Your Monster Cookie Crispy Rice Treats
One of the best things about these treats is how easily they can be customized. While the recipe calls for a specific set of ingredients, you can swap out or add a variety of ingredients to suit your preferences. For instance, if you’re not a fan of milk chocolate chips, you can opt for dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even butterscotch chips. If you’re looking to add a bit of extra crunch, try adding crushed nuts, such as peanuts or almonds, or even a handful of granola. For a healthier twist, you can substitute some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup, or use whole-grain oats for a more fiber-rich treat.
If you want to take these bars to the next level, consider adding a swirl of caramel or a drizzle of chocolate on top before setting them. These variations add a beautiful touch and elevate the visual appeal of the bars, making them perfect for serving at parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
Perfect for Special Occasions
These Monster Cookie Crispy Rice Treats aren’t just your everyday snack—they can also be a star attraction at any celebration. The colorful candy-coated chocolates make these bars particularly suited for themed events like birthday parties, Halloween, or even a simple afternoon treat for a family gathering. The bright colors give them a festive touch, making them visually appealing, especially for kids. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party or attending a picnic, these bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to transport, so you don’t have to worry about them falling apart during travel. Their combination of flavor, texture, and visual appeal makes them a great addition to any party spread.
Healthier Tweaks to the Recipe
Though Monster Cookie Crispy Rice Treats are undeniably a sweet indulgence, there are a few healthier tweaks you can make if you’re looking to lighten the recipe without sacrificing taste. For a lower-sugar version, consider using sugar-free marshmallows or replacing the regular marshmallows with ones that are sweetened with alternative sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit. You could also swap out the creamy peanut butter for a natural peanut butter that contains less added sugar and oil. Additionally, swapping in whole-grain oats or adding dried fruit like cranberries or raisins can boost the nutritional value while adding even more texture and flavor.
For those who prefer a more decadent treat, you could even drizzle some melted chocolate over the top of the finished bars for an extra layer of richness. The combination of a gooey center with a thin chocolate coating would be a hit for those who love the chocolate-peanut butter flavor combo.
The Allure of Peanut Butter and Oats
The marriage of peanut butter and oats in Monster Cookie Crispy Rice Treats is one of the key features that makes this dessert stand out. Peanut butter is a beloved ingredient in many dessert recipes, providing a rich, creamy texture and a deep, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with sweet ingredients like chocolate and marshmallows. Oats, on the other hand, bring a hearty, wholesome element to the dish, adding chewiness and fiber. Together, they provide a base that is both satisfying and indulgent, making these bars more filling than your average dessert. This combination also offers some nutritional benefits, such as healthy fats and protein from the peanut butter and fiber from the oats.
Conclusion: A Must-Try for Every Baker
In conclusion, Monster Cookie Crispy Rice Treats are an innovative take on the classic rice crispy treat that adds a fun twist with the inclusion of peanut butter, oats, and candy-coated chocolates. This no-bake dessert is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, allowing for endless customization to fit any taste or dietary preference. Whether you’re making them for a family treat, a holiday event, or just because, these bars are guaranteed to be a hit. Their chewy texture, delicious flavors, and colorful appeal make them perfect for all ages and occasions. So, if you’re looking for a dessert that’s fun, quick, and irresistible, Monster Cookie Crispy Rice Treats should definitely be on your list.